1 NEWS special report: Tonga's children targeted by meth dealers looking to gain 'a client for life'

Authorities are struggling to stop the destructive drug from coming into the island nation.

Children are among those being targeted by drug syndicates in Tonga as the Kingdom battles a widespread methamphetamine problem.

Several primary and high schools have put security measures in place to protect children who are being approached by dealers to make deliveries.

Teachers and parents have confirmed some schools are under siege and one woman whose loved ones are involved in drug dealing says addiction is spreading.

"The use of meth in Tonga is rampant - to the point where dealers are encouraging kids to try it because they know they’ll have a client for life."

The police have set up a drugs taskforce to deal with the growing problem, and since April have made 96 arrests.

But they say that’s only scratching the surface.

In a special investigation 1 NEWS went inside one of Tongaptapu’s five major meth syndicates and has been given exclusive details on how they work.

SEE THE FIRST PART OF BARBARA DREAVER'S TWO-PART SERIES ON 1 NEWS AT 6PM 

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